Job Overview

Applications are now open for the Iceland Writers Retreat Alumni Award 2027, taking place in Reykjavík, Iceland, from 14–18 April 2027. This is a fully funded international opportunity for writers of all levels who want to develop their craft, connect with other writers, and experience one of the world's most inspiring literary destinations.

The program lasts five days and aims to connect talented writers and enhance their writing skills. All interested candidates are welcome—you do not need to be a professional writer, and IELTS is not required. Writers of all experience levels and backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Hosted at the Fosshotel Reykjavík, the retreat features small-group writing workshops led by well-known writers from around the world, unique panels featuring Icelandic authors, literary tours to experience Iceland's inspiring nature, a literary walking tour of Reykjavík (a UNESCO City of Literature), and additional readings and panels by faculty.

This opportunity is best suited for anyone aged 18 or over who has a passion for writing and needs financial support to attend. Whether you are an emerging writer or an experienced one, the Iceland Writers Retreat offers a unique environment to grow, learn, and connect.

Why This Opportunity Matters

The Iceland Writers Retreat is more than a writing conference. It is a transformative experience that combines craft development, cultural immersion, and community building in one of the most beautiful and creative countries in the world.

What makes this opportunity valuable:

• Fully funded experience. Full scholarship recipients receive the participant fee, five nights' accommodation at the retreat hotel, and round-trip flights to Iceland. Partial funding covers the participant fee only. This removes financial barriers and allows you to focus entirely on your writing.

• World-class instruction. Small-group writing workshops are led by well-known writers from around the world. You will receive personalised feedback, learn new techniques, and develop your unique voice.

• Unique Icelandic experience. Iceland is a country of stunning natural beauty and a rich literary tradition. You will experience literary tours to waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanic landscapes, as well as a walking tour of Reykjavík, a UNESCO City of Literature.

• Networking opportunities. You will meet writers from around the world, share ideas, and build connections that can last a lifetime. The retreat also includes music, readings, meals, and social events.

• Diversity and inclusion. The program welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds and with all levels of writing experience. You do not need to be a professional writer to apply.

• No IELTS required. Proficiency in English is required, but you do not need to take an IELTS test. This makes the opportunity accessible to a wider range of writers.

• Career growth. Completing the Iceland Writers Retreat enhances your writing CV and demonstrates your commitment to developing your craft. It signals to publishers, agents, and peers that you are serious about your writing.

• Cultural immersion. Living and writing in Iceland for five days gives you a unique cultural experience. You will learn about Icelandic literature, history, and daily life while contributing to a vibrant international writing community.

If you are looking for fully funded writing opportunities, international retreats, or a chance to develop your craft in an inspiring setting, the Iceland Writers Retreat is an exceptional choice.

Application Tips

The Iceland Writers Retreat is competitive, with applicants from around the world. To give yourself the best chance, follow these practical tips.

• Check your eligibility first. You must be aged 18 or over. The competition is open to nationals of all countries. Proficiency in English is required, but IELTS is not required.

• Understand the selection criteria. Recipients are chosen based primarily on two factors:

  • The potential they demonstrate (or have demonstrated) as a writer.

  • Their need for financial support to attend.

• Submit a strong writing sample. The quality of your writing sample is a key part of the selection process. Choose a piece that showcases your best writing, whether it is fiction, non-fiction, poetry, or another form.

• Write a compelling motivation statement. Explain why you want to attend the Iceland Writers Retreat and why you would be the perfect match for the award. Be specific about how the retreat will help you grow as a writer and how you will contribute to the community.

• Attach two reference letters. You will need to upload two reference letters as part of your application. Ask referees who know your writing and can speak to your potential and commitment.

• Prepare your documents early. Gather your writing sample, motivation statement, and reference letters well before the deadline. This will give you time to refine your application and ensure everything is complete.

• Apply early. The deadline is 15 October 2026. Do not wait until the last minute. Early applications show enthusiasm and give you time to address any issues.

• Use the official application website. Complete the online application and answer all questions. Upload your reference letters in the online form. The link to the official website is provided in the announcement.

• Be authentic. The selection committee is looking for genuine, motivated writers. Be yourself in your application and let your passion for writing shine through.

• Proofread everything. Spelling and grammar errors can undermine an otherwise strong application. Read your responses aloud, ask a mentor or friend to review them, and make sure your application is polished before submitting.

Responsibilities

As a participant in the Iceland Writers Retreat, you will:

Participate in Workshops and Panels

• Attend small-group writing workshops for all levels, led by well-known writers from around the world.

• Participate in unique panels featuring Icelandic authors.

• Attend additional readings and panels by faculty.

Experience Icelandic Culture and Nature

• Join all-inclusive, unique literary tours to experience Iceland's inspiring nature.

• Participate in a literary walking tour of Reykjavík, a UNESCO City of Literature.

• Enjoy music, readings, meals, and social events.

Engage with the Writing Community

• Network with writers from around the world.

• Share your work, receive feedback, and support fellow writers.

• Contribute to a vibrant, inclusive writing community.

What is Included in the Full Scholarship?

• Participant fee.

• Five nights' accommodation at the retreat hotel.

• Round-trip flights to Iceland.

What is Included in the Partial Funding?

• Partial funding covers the participant fee only. Neither accommodation nor round-trip flights are included.

Requirements

• Anyone aged 18 or over can apply.

• Applicants from all backgrounds and with all levels of writing experience are welcome.

• The competition is open to nationals of all countries.

• Proficiency in English is required, but IELTS is not required.

Selection Criteria

• The quality of writing.

• The quality of writing samples.

• The motivation statement: Why would you be the perfect match for the Iceland Retreat Award?

• Two reference letters.

Application Requirements

• Complete the online application form.

• Answer all questions.

• Upload two reference letters.

• Submit before the deadline of 15 October 2026.

How to Apply

Follow these steps to apply for the Iceland Writers Retreat Program 2027:

1. Check your eligibility. Confirm that you are aged 18 or over and proficient in English.

2. Prepare your writing sample. Choose a piece of writing that showcases your best work. This could be fiction, non-fiction, poetry, or another form.

3. Write your motivation statement. Explain why you want to attend the Iceland Writers Retreat and why you would be the perfect match for the award. Be specific about your writing goals and how the retreat will help you achieve them.

4. Request two reference letters. Ask referees who know your writing and can speak to your potential and commitment.

5. Visit the official application website. Access the online application form using the link provided in the official announcement.

6. Complete the online application. Fill in all required fields accurately and upload your writing sample, motivation statement, and reference letters.

7. Submit before the deadline. Applications must be submitted by 15 October 2026. Do not wait until the last minute.

8. Wait for the outcome. Selected participants will be notified by the Iceland Writers Retreat. If selected, you will receive information about travel, accommodation, and program details.

9. Prepare for travel. If selected, start your visa application (if required) and pack appropriately for Iceland's spring weather.